Qualification is our only objective - Kévin Nicaise & Casimir Ninga (Chad coach and captain)
Chad managed a hard-fought 1-0 win over Mauritius on Friday, 22 March in the opening leg of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 Qualifiers. This was the nation’s first ever win in five years, as they aim to qualify for the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON for the first time in history.
The return leg of the qualifier is scheduled for Mauritius on Tuesday, 26 March.
CAFOnline caught up with Chad coach, Kevin Nicaise and captain, Casimir Ninga post the victory.
Coach well done on the victory. Your team dominated the second period but lacked efficiency in finishing. Does this concern you?
Kévin Nicaise: We faltered a little in the finishing. However, what I remember is that we created a lot of chances. We were solid defensively. In the first half, the match was more balanced. During the second half, we took the upper hand. I think at the start of the match, the boys were a little stressed about what was at stake. It’s a fairly young group, they don’t all have experience when compared to Mauritius. But overall, we are satisfied.
How do you plan on rectify the lack of finishing?
KN: We are far from perfect, far from being a top team in the world. We are in the construction phase. There are still things to work on and improve. It is not overnight that we will be a top team in the world, we are aware of that, however we are working hard with the group and the staff to achieve this goal. The first twenty minutes were not great. During the second half, we dared to play, we placed ourselves higher. Our group has players who have a lot of quality but they were stressed by the occasion at first and then they adjusted later. We could have scored a goal a little earlier which would have relieved everyone, but I am satisfied with my team's performance.
Captain, what did the coach say to the team during halftime?
Casimir Ninga: During half-time, the coach spoke to us about the chances we missed. I knew we had to work harder in front of goal and that at some point it was going to kick in.
What analysis do you make of this first meeting against Mauritius?
CN: The group has just been formed and we are still gelling. Our opponents now know our game and we know theirs. We will now get back to work to fill our gaps.
What will be the key to winning the return match?
CN: We will go to Mauritius to qualify. Our objective is clear. Chad has never been to the AFCON. Many generations have struggled with the accomplishment of this project. Everything comes in its time; we have good hope of getting there.
Coach, what are the good points of your team after this meeting?
KN: The biggest thing is winning. It's been five years since we last won a match, it's a relief for everyone. I think it will give confidence for the future. Then, defensively we must remain strong. We didn't concede too many chances. We will have to take advantage of this victory and quickly refocus because we have a match awaiting us on Tuesday.